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Sailboat Specifications

Freedom 33

Cat Ketch (Unstayed) · Keel/Cbrd.

Designed by J. Paris/Garry Hoyt · Built by Tillotson Pearson Inc, (Usa) · First built 1979

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LOA 34.75 ft  ·  Beam 11.00 ft  ·  Displacement 12,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 516.00 ft²  ·  Cat Ketch (Unstayed)  ·  Keel/Cbrd.
About the Freedom 33 Sailboat

Built by Tillotson Pearson from 1979 to 1983, this innovative cat ketch represents a fascinating chapter in sailing history. Designed by J. Paris and Garry Hoyt, the Freedom 33 pioneered the unstayed rig concept, featuring freestanding carbon fiber masts that eliminated the traditional web of shrouds and stays. This revolutionary approach promised simplified sailing with fewer components to maintain or fail. At 34.75 feet overall with a 30-foot waterline, the boat offers respectable accommodations while maintaining manageable size for coastal cruising and occasional offshore passages. The moderate displacement of 12,000 pounds and 3,800-pound ballast provide decent stability, though the unique keel/centerboard configuration allows for shoal-water exploration when needed. With 516 square feet of sail area distributed across two wishbone-rigged sails, the Freedom 33 delivers comfortable cruising performance rather than racing speed. The unstayed rig's forgiving nature makes it particularly appealing to short-handed sailors or those seeking low-maintenance sailing. However, potential buyers should research parts availability and find mechanics familiar with the specialized rig system, as the unique design requires specific knowledge for proper maintenance and repair.

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The Freedom 33 uses an unstayed cat ketch rig with free-standing carbon fiber or fiberglass masts. The mast partners and deck compression posts must be inspected carefully for cracking and delamination, as the unstayed masts transmit significant bending loads directly into the deck structure.
High
The deck collar and partner area around the free-standing masts is a known water intrusion point. The fiberglass sleeve that supports the mast at deck level can develop cracks and crazing, allowing water to migrate into the deck core and surrounding laminate.
Medium
The wishbone booms used on both masts are prone to corrosion at the jaw fittings and pivot points. Original aluminum wishbones from early production are difficult to source replacement hardware for and should be inspected for cracks at the joints.
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Market Price Estimate Beta
Small sample size. This estimate is based on fewer than 5 listings and may not be representative of the true market. Use with caution.
$18,900 – $18,900
typical asking price
Median $18,900  ·  1 listing used
All listings
$18,900 – $18,900 1
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 34.75 ft / 10.59 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.00 ft / 9.14 m
Beam 11.00 ft / 3.35 m
Max Draft 7.50 ft / 2.29 m
Min Draft 3.50 ft / 1.07 m
Displacement 12,000.00 lb / 5,443 kg
Ballast 3,800.00 lb / 1,724 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 516.00 ft² / 47.94 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/Cbrd.
Rigging Type Cat Ketch (unstayed)
Construction FG
Designer J. Paris/Garry Hoyt
Builder Tillotson Pearson Inc, (USA)
First Built 1979
Last Built 1983
Associations FreedomYachts.org
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Yanmar
Engine Model 2QM
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 18
Fuel Capacity 25 gals / 95 L
Water Capacity 53 gals / 201 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Freedom 33's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Freedom 33 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.81. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Freedom 33's comfort ratio?

The Freedom 33 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 24.21. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Freedom 33 safe for offshore sailing?

The Freedom 33 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.93. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Freedom 33?

The theoretical hull speed of the Freedom 33 is 7.34 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Freedom 33 weigh?

The Freedom 33 has a displacement of 12,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 34.75 ft.

How much does a used Freedom 33 cost?

Based on 1 recent market listings, used Freedom 33 sailboats typically sell for between $18,900 and $18,900, with a median asking price of $18,900. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Freedom 33?

The Freedom 33 was designed by J. Paris/Garry Hoyt, first built in 1979.